Vitreoretinal Consultants

Retinal Diseases/Treatments

Common Diseases

Age-Related Macular Degeneraltion

Common Treatments

Amsler Grid

Printable test for Macular Disease

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss worldwide and typically affects individuals 50 years of age or older. As life expectancy increases, the disease is becoming a significant problem. The disease affects the part of the retina called the macula, which is responsible for central vision. Central vision enables us to read, drive, sew and perform other tasks that require detailed vision. Vision loss from AMD typically occurs gradually and can affect both eyes at different rates. Even though macular degeneration can cause visual impairment, the disease usually does not cause peripheral (side) vision loss or lead to total blindness.

Types

The two common types of macular degeneration are "dry" and "wet."

"Dry" form - the most common form of macular degeneration is caused by aging and thinning of the tissues of the macula. It develops slowly and usually causes mild vision loss. As this form of the disease develops, people often notice a dimming of vision while reading.
"Wet" form - rare, and more severe. The wet form of the disease causes new blood vessels to grow beneath the retina, which leak fluid and blood, often creating a large blind spot in the center of the visual field. May progress rapidly causing significant central vision loss.


"Dry" Form	"Wet" Form

The causes of macular degeneration are not completely understood. Some scientists believe heredity may play a part, as well as UV light exposure, nutrition, and cigarette smoking. Studies are ongoing.

Symptoms

A dark area or a "white-out" appears in the center of vision
Blurred or fuzzy vision
Color perception fades or changes
Straight lines, such as sentences on a page or telephone poles, appear wavy or distorted

Treatment

"Dry" form - There is no proven effective treatment for dry macular degneraation. Low vision rehabilitation can help those with significant vision loss to maintain excellent quality of life. High dose antioxidant vitamin therapy may help prevent some patients with dry macular degeneration from developing the wet form of the disease.
"Wet" form - a variety of therapies are available for we macular degeneration; including intravitreal injection, photodynamic therapy, and rarely laser photocoagulation.

Low Vision Rehabilitation

Can help people who have experienced mild to severe vision loss adjust to their condition and continue to enjoy active and independent lifestyles. Low Vision Rehabilitation may involve anything from adjusting the lighting in your home to learning to use low vision aids to help you read and perform daily tasks. VRC works with Dr. Stanley Woo, O.D. for low vision rehabilitation.

Diseases and Surgery of the Retina and Vitreous